A NATIONAL HERITAGE AREACheck Last Minute Availability
Just 15 minutes from Atlanta is a recreational haven for all ages and interests. Visitors can picnic while children work off energy on the playground. The park offers archery, boat rental, geocaching, orienteering, birding and tree-climbing programs. A paved trail is open for biking, roller blading, jogging and dog-walking, while forested fitness trails are open for hiking and running.

Panola Mountain is a 100-acre granite outcrop similar to Stone Mountain, but smaller and much more pristine. Park visitors will see the outcrop and its rare ecosystem just as Native Americans did centuries ago. Reservations are required for ranger-led hikes that teach about the rare plants and animals found in this habitat.

Panola Mountain State Park is the crown jewel of the Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area, one of only three National Heritage Areas in the state. The park’s unusual natural beauty and intriguing cultural changes are the basis for this special recognition. Over the years, this area has been home to early settlers, immigrant rock cutters, freed slaves and even Trappist monks. Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area is a partnership among the state of Georgia; DeKalb, Henry and Rockdale counties; the Monastery of the Holy Spirit; and numerous communities and public-private partners. Panola has also been designated a National Natural Landmark. Learn more at www.arabiaalliance.org.Panola Mountain State Park Business Plan

Have you ever wanted to release your inner archer? Maybe you're just looking for a place to hone your skills, no matter the weather. Our indoor archery classes are a great place to brush-up on the basics or start from scratch with the guidance of a certified instructor. All equipment is provided! Ages 9 and up. Must call to register. $12 plus $5 parking. 770-389-7801.

Join us "on rope" for an adventure exploring the canopy above. Participants will use rope and harness for this moderately strenuous, very unique activity. Please arrive 15 minutes before each program. Participants must call to register in advance. Ages 8 and up. $15 plus $5 parking. 770-389-7801.

Improve your archery skills in this class that focuses on accuracy and shooting farther distances. Students must attend three basic archery classes before attending this program. Equipment is provided. Meet at the pavilion by Alexander Lake. Ages 9 and up. Must call to register and pay in advance. $12 plus $5 parking. 770-389-7801.

Join us for a ranger-led hike up Panola Mountain to enjoy the sunset over Atlanta. The moonlight will guide us down to a lakeside campfire where we'll enjoy s'mores! Bring flashlights, bug spray, hiking boots and water. Ages 10 and up. Space is limited. please call to register in advance. $10 plus $5 parking. 770-389-7801.

Join park staff and volunteers as we work to keep our public lands beautiful and clean. We will be planting local wildflowers in our sweeping "Power of Flight" grassland habitat area, cleaning litter from our lake shores, and giving your park the care she deserves. All ages welcome! Meet at the Alexander Lakes parking area. Sponsored by Friends of Georgia State Parks. 770-389-7801.